Static Memory Allocation
Static memory allocation is a memory management technique where memory for variables is allocated at compile time and remains fixed throughout the program's execution. It typically involves global variables, static variables, and arrays with fixed sizes, with memory allocated in the data segment or stack. This approach provides deterministic memory usage but lacks flexibility for dynamic data structures.
Developers should use static memory allocation when working with fixed-size data structures, embedded systems with limited memory, or performance-critical applications where predictable memory overhead is essential. It's ideal for scenarios requiring fast allocation/deallocation (as it occurs at compile time) and avoiding runtime fragmentation, such as in real-time systems or when implementing lookup tables.